Nkosi’s Haven has kicked off 2011 with a much-needed cash injection thanks to MiWay, OFM and South Africa’s holiday makers. The short-term insurer, which turns three this year, says the campaign is just one of a variety of initiatives aimed at helping ordinary people help those most in need.

MiWay’s head of marketing Carine Conradie-Haffejee explains the insurer has recognised that many South Africans want to help the less fortunate but don’t know where to start. “When we began planning our social responsibility projects with our colleagues we realised that everyone has an initiative close to our hearts. However, few of us had been active in our cause; mostly, because we weren’t sure where to start or felt our single contribution wouldn’t make a difference. If we feel that way, then there must be many more just hoping for an opportunity to get involved.”

Nkosi’s Haven is a recognised non-profit organisation that has been in operation since 1999. It offers holistic care and support for destitute HIV/AIDS infected mothers, their children, and resulting AIDS orphans, infected or not. The organisation is named after Nkosi Johnson, the young AIDS activist who passed away in 2001.

Like all charitable organisations, Nkosi’s Haven is always in need of financial support for its endeavours. Without this support Nkosi's Haven would not be able to continue to expand and support a growing number of women and children affected by HIV/AIDS.

For the Nkosi’s Haven initiative MiWay staff camped out at popular Engen 1 Stops in Harrismith and Bloemfontein on December 16 and January 2 and 9.

“We chose those specific dates because holiday traffic is highest. We went armed with gift parcels which had been sponsored by MiWay and encouraged holiday-makers to exchange their small change for one of the fun-packages. And South Africans have a lot of small change in their cars, pockets and purses, we left with aching arms and warmed hearts,” says Conradie-Haffejee.

In addition to funding the gift parcels, MiWay matched the amount donated by the public.

Conradie-Haffejee says the funds will help Nkosi’s Haven getting their younger charges ready for school. “Any person responsible for children will tell you how difficult January and February can be as stationery, consumables and school uniforms eat away at your budget. Nkosi’s Haven children have been through so much already, they should at least be given the tools to make the most of their education. MiWay together with the many generous South Africans we met over the holiday period wish our youth well as they get a new school year underway.”